Cerritos College Celebrates Another Record-Breaking Year With Largest Graduating Class

Over 6,200 degrees and certificates conferred at the 2023 Commencement

Graduates at the Commencement ceremonyCerritos College once again shattered its own graduation record, having conferred the largest number of degrees and certificates awarded in the campus’ history. During its 65th annual commencement ceremony held on Friday, May 19, the College conferred more than 6,200 degrees and certificates. The Class of 2023 overwhelmingly surpassed last year’s record-breaking number of degrees and certificates by over 1,000 awards.

Ebony LewisServing as this year’s student commencement speaker, Ebony Lewis congratulated the Class of 2023 for their accomplishments and encouraged them to journey on to greater success. Ebony returned to school as a single mother in 2020 to study real estate at the College, where she learned various avenues and aspects of real estate. “Due to finances, I found it difficult to focus and continue with my education, but with the housing support and other assistance I received from the Falcon’s Nest, I made it through,” said Ebony. She is graduating with associate degrees in business management and real estate, a certificate of achievement in business essentials, and a California real estate license. 

On average, Cerritos College students complete their degrees and certificates in less time than other local institutions, giving them an edge at transferring or entering the job market. This year’s graduates will be transitioning to some of the nation’s top colleges and universities, including the University of La Verne, Loyola Marymount University, USC, UC Berkeley, and UCLA, among other schools. 

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate another historic year at Cerritos College,” said Dr. Jose Fierro, Cerritos College President/Superintendent. “Many of our graduates began their studies online in the midst of uncertainty due to the pandemic. I commend each of our graduates for their perseverance and commitment to earning a degree or certificate, and our dedicated faculty and staff for their tireless work to ensure student success.”